Repair contract (one-page ‘next time’ agreement)
Aim (what it achieves)
Create shared clarity on what will happen next time, reducing argument and ambiguity for repeat issues.
When to use
When behaviour repeats across lessons; after Plan B / pastoral discussion; when staff need consistency and the student needs predictability.
How to use (steps)
Teacher language (examples)
“We’re agreeing this so you can succeed. Two things only: (1) … (2) … Let’s review Friday.”
Top tips (makes it work)
Keep it short; write in simple language; share with key staff; celebrate improvement.
Common pitfalls
Turning it into a punishment; adding 10 targets; not reviewing it; using it to avoid consequences.
SEND/PP considerations
Helpful for SEND students who benefit from explicit expectations. Keep it framed as support to meet the same standards.
Useful for these SEND needs
Relevant SEND Needs
Why this strategy helps
- Restores trust and readiness after incidents.
- Supports regulation and relational safety.
- Clarifies language and participation pathways.
Universal SEND-friendly: Yes
SEND-targeted: No
Tags
Sources
- Practice-based
- pastoral support tool
Used in
Common Behaviour Issues (Behaviour Hub)
- Repair & Rebuild Low-level defiance / arguing / 'No' (mild)
Related strategies
Connect then correct (brief repair after correction)
Prevent resentment and ‘teacher hates me’ narratives after a boundary.
Restorative micro-conversation (3 questions)
Repair harm and restore learning relationships quickly.
Re-entry script (fresh start + first step)
Reintegrate students positively after conflict or sanction.
Relationship banking (planned positive micro-interactions)
Build trust so corrections land without escalation.
Adult repair (when we got it wrong)
Model respect and reduce ongoing conflict after a teacher misstep.
Home–school communication (partnership framing)
Reduce repeat issues by aligning adults and avoiding blame narratives.